What is Indian aster? How is it different from shepherd's purse

Indian aster, also known as Indian aster and chicken intestine, is a common wild vegetable in many regions of our country. It generally grows most luxuriantly after the rain around Qingming, and its taste is somewhat similar to bitter melon, but many people like to eat it. So what is Indian aster? How is it different from shepherd's purse?

1. What kind of wild vegetable is Indian aster?

Indian aster is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is not only an edible wild vegetable but can also be used as medicine. Therefore, the nutritional value and medicinal value of Indian aster are both very high. Like many wild vegetables, Indian aster has strong adaptability. Whether cold or dry and hot, nothing can stop Indian aster from growing, so this plant is very suitable for beginners to grow.

2. What is the difference between Indian aster and shepherd's purse?

1. Indian aster and shepherd's purse are two relatively common wild vegetables, but the growing environment and appearance of Indian aster and shepherd's purse are very different. For example, Indian aster generally grows more by lakeside wetlands and less in dry places. Moreover, Indian aster generally grows in groups.

2. Shepherd's purse is a bit harder to distinguish. In its early stage, shepherd's purse usually stands upright on the ground instead of hugging the ground, and a small plant has rather many leaves. The leaves have no hairs and are not very long. The leaves of shepherd's purse are generally rather uneven, and the color is fairly green. Moreover, shepherd's purse sprouts relatively early.

3. Once shepherd's purse has grown larger, it is easier to distinguish. It grows relatively tall, and at the top there are generally some small white flowers distributed around the stem. After flowering, it will bear fruit. Sometimes shepherd's purse is still flowering at the top while it has already fruited below.

3. When is Indian aster available?

1. Indian aster has very low temperature requirements. It can survive well even at minus 10°C or at around 35°C, so its requirements for the environment are very low.

2. Generally, Indian aster is harvested and marketed in spring from March to April. But the best time is around Qingming. If you want to eat Indian aster, you can pick some casually when visiting the graves of the departed at Qingming and take them home to eat.

The above is the relevant introduction to Indian aster. I hope it is helpful to everyone.